Prestwick Airport welcomes Ryanair hangar

The airline's second maintenance hangar, which cost £8 million was officially opened by Michael O'Leary, Ryanair's chief executive, and Alex Salmond, Scotland's first minister.

"Ryanair’s successful growth in Scotland is possible thanks to our ongoing partnership with the Scottish government and Scottish Enterprise who have repeatedly supported our vision for many more low fare flights to/from Scotland," Mr O'Leary said.

Prestwick Airport secured the hangar in the face of bids by five of the airline's other European bases.

The new maintenance hangar will bring 200 extra engineering jobs to the travel hub.

Mr Salmond said that he was "delighted" at Ryanair's decision to support the local job market and the Scottish economy.

In addition, Ryanair last month celebrated at Prestwick Airport when its 20 millionth passenger flew from there.